Scholars Academy: Colten Adams

The UNO College of Business Administration Scholars Academy is a close-knit community of ambitious, high-achieving business students who want to challenge themselves while pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

During this four-year program, Scholars are mentored by Omaha-area business professionals, take special business courses taught by award-winning faculty, and gain real-world experience through community engagement and international travel. They also receive generous scholarships.

Scholars are selected the spring of their senior year in high school after a rigorous and competitive application process.

Meet new member Colten Adams of Orchard, Nebraska.

Why did you choose UNO?

Initially, I wanted to go to UNO because of the excellent business program. The connection between the university and the Omaha business community was very appealing to me. I knew I was going to UNO when I visited the campus. I loved how it reminded me of a small village inside a big city. I felt as though it was the perfect fit for me.

Why did you choose business as a major?

I chose to major in business because I want to create a business of my own someday. To construct a business, I must have knowledge and experience of how a business works, and I will need skills in finance, marketing, management, accounting, and economics. I chose business administration as a major to learn about each of these facets. My education in these areas is what will help me to excel in the future.

What business concentration are you planning to pursue? Why?

I am choosing entrepreneurship because someday I will be an entrepreneur. I want to change people's lives and impact our society for the better. Furthermore, I love having the freedom to set my life and choose where I go. I am a creative person and believe that imagination is the greatest form of innovation. My ultimate goal is to create a product or business that makes our world a better place to live.

What aspect of the Scholars Academy are you most looking forward to?

I am very excited to build an abundance of connections through the Scholars Academy. I believe that friendships are a key aspect of business. These partnerships not only create opportunities but are great ways to get advice. The Scholars Academy will be an excellent way to meet lifelong friends who care about each other. I am so eager to meet other people my age who have the same goals and interests as I do.

What do you like to do in your free time?

My free time usually consists of photography or reading. I have a passion for photography and spend most weekends taking photos. Although I have dabbled in several categories of photography, I enjoy landscapes the most. When you take a photograph, the moment is captured forever. I feel as though it is very important to look for the beauty in our world and to preserve the memory.

What is one thing we would be surprised to know about you?

Many people don't know that I love art. I enjoy painting and drawing whatever comes to my mind. My favorite medium to use is graphite pencils because they are the most precise. I enjoy going to art and photography galleries to absorb the many different styles. I could spend hours gawking at paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs.